Very slight clunk that dissapears when at normal temp. Suspect Big ends about to go (102,000 mile '98 UK Turbo) has anyone done these from under the car with just the sump and strainer off. I've done it on other cars but never a 'boxer', is it possible?

 

no you cant do it that way unless you have a magic spanner.

the block has to be removes and split in half sadly.

anyway bigends should get louder wen the engine getts hotter, it sounds like you may have a problem with your heads, or it could be the main thrust bearing, or even the clutch release bearing, push your foot on the clutch bearing and see if the noise goes away if it does then i would say it was a problem with the heads.


but if i wer you tho bud i wouldnt bother taking the engine apart, its not uncommon for these engines to make some odd noises wen cold, and still last thousands of miles.

 

We had a big end go on our '02 WRX, and believe me you would know it! Also, it got rattlier and louder as the car warmed up and the oil thinned.

 

as above,big ends get louder hotter the engine, sounds liek piston slap

 

as above - could be piston slap. A know issue: Subaru Impreza FAQ

 

Thanks Guys plenty to think about, I'm new to the boxer layout, think I'll run it till it stops then put another engine in it.
BruceJC